How to create a flexible work environment: Employer tips

With the rise in demand for flexible hours, remote work and alternative working arrangements it has become increasingly important for businesses to be openminded about what a happy and productive workplace environment looks like.   

Creating a flexible working environment for staff can greatly improve employee well-being, boost job satisfaction, enhance productivity and encourage a workplace culture of trust and collaboration.  

A flexible work environment allows employees to create a more healthy balance between their personal and professional lives. This brings increased job satisfaction, reduces stress and improves overall well-being but it’s not only beneficial to employees. Businesses that encourage flexible work environments consistently see a rise in productivity and an increased retention of staff. 

So how can employers get started in creating a flexible work environment?  

1. Figure out what flexible work options you’ll offer. Whether it’s remote work, flexible working hours, compressed work weeks or even job sharing; figuring out what you’re willing to offer your employees is the first step.
   
2. Communicate your expectations. Be clear about what you expect in terms of availability, performance, communication and accountability. Create some KPIs and make sure everyone is on board with what is expected of them.
   
3. Get connected. Provide employees with reliable technology so that they are able to communicate, collaborate and contribute in all the ways that are expected of them. Make sure you’re aware of cybersecurity risks and have implemented safeguards to protect your data.
   
4. Get results focussed. The traditional ‘nine to five’ mentality doesn’t really exist in a flexible work environment; shifting your focus from ‘in the door at nine and out again at five’ to considering deliverables and outcomes is vital for success. You need to be able to recognise performance and results, rather than relying on a clock to tell you if your people are working effectively.
   
5. Communicate. Checking in with your staff is a crucial part of maintaining a flexible work environment. Allow employees space to offer feedback about what is and isn’t working for them to ensure that everyone feels valued and supported.  

Shifting your mindset about what a productive workplace looks and feels like can be tricky, but the benefits to creating flexible working environments can’t be overstated.  

Need help with recruitment and workforce planning? Rethink employment with CoAct.

Did you know CoAct has a pool of over 30,000 willing job candidates located all across Australia. We are committed to providing value to employers by helping you find the right talent for your business through end-to-end recruitment services at no cost to you. We understand that the ability to attract and retain employee talent is vital for business success.

As a three-time Employer of Choice winner, CoAct is committed to creating a workplace that champions employee well-being, growth, and success. This commitment extends to helping employers across Australia bring out the best in their workforce. Last financial year the CoAct network supported over 84,000 employers, saving them over $42,376,000 in recruitment costs and 132,425 hours in recruitment hours.

If you’re looking for support in how to create roles for your staff that will adapt to each person’s diverse strengths and work to bring out their best, review the Employer Hub and contact the team at CoAct today.